Video conferencing allows people at two or more locations to see and hear each other

at the same time, using computer and communications technology. They exchange
visual information with Webcams (digital video cameras) and streaming video. Audio
content may be distributed via computer or the telephone system.

The chief advantage of video conferencing is that audiences tend to absorb information
better if they are both seeing and hearing it. To accomplish that, video conferencing
programs combine Web page tools and Internet communication into one interface to
create an interactive meeting environment. These tools include:

 HTML, XML and ASP markup

 Java scripts
 Flash animation
 Instant messaging
 Streaming audio and video

The simplest video conference requires two people, each with:

 A computer
 An Internet connection
 A telephone, if audio content isn't provided online
 A PC with a microphone, a Webcam or digital video camera, and a video capture
card

Video input from the camera and audio input from the microphone are converted to
digital data. Software is used to compress the data so that it can travel more quickly via
ISDN lines, broadband Internet or WiFi. When the data reaches its destination, it's
decompressed to be viewed on a computer monitor or television screen and heard
through speakers. Acoustic echo cancellation software is used to remove sound
interference and eliminate delays so that sound and visuals are in synch [source: The
Tech-FAQ].

Video conferencing software can be purchased by itself, or the software and server
space can be provided by a hosting service.

The U.S. military uses video conferencing in several different ways.

Connecting Commanders and Families

The U.S. Army first used digital communication technology in 1990 to broadcast a
training course to five National Guard sites in Kentucky. Today, the Army uses digital
communication technology -- including video conferencing -- for everything from training
to war planning.
Every year, for example, 35,000 hours of training is broadcast to 1,200 U.S. military
sites around the world. Video conferencing speeds up the work of the military justice
system by connecting experts in one location with military tribunals or medical review
boards in another. And, the Army's combat planning in Iraq includes daily video
conferences to outline daily missions and review strategy with field commanders, plus
additional conferences with troops.

These meetings are transmitted using the Aethra SuperNova video teleconference
system. Because the details are top secret, these video conferences require secure
transmissions. Video and audio signals are sent across hard-wired, fiber-optic
connections to and from each conference site, over encoded military satellite systems,
or a combination of both. Troops connect to the system from headquarters, the
battlefield or nearby military bases [source: Special Operations Technology]. Over time,
commanders recognized the need to let soldiers use that technology to connect with
their families at home.

Next, we'll see how military video conferencing works for military personnel and their
families.